Australia’s close proximity to the equator and high sun elevation provides a recipe for higher levels of UV radiation than other parts of the world. Combine this with our outdoor Aussie way of life and we can see that this can lead to premature ageing including loss of volume, sagging of the skin and vascular and pigment disorders. UV is the primary external reason for premature ageing with fairer skins notice skin wrinkling and sagging at a younger age and more olive complexions notice an uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation.
So, what can we do to better equip our skin to deal with the harsher elements that we face in Australia?
Decrease the amount of UV that comes into contact with your facial skin.
I know this is drummed into us from an early age, but there is benefit from using a light, mineral SPF all year round on the face and neck. Vitamin D is created in our bodies when we are exposed to sunlight. We need Vitamin D to keep our bones and muscles strong and healthy. According to the Cancer.org.au website in Summer “for most people, adequate vitamin D levels are reached through regular incidental exposure to the sun. When the UV Index is 3 or above (such as during summer), most people maintain adequate vitamin D levels just by spending a few minutes outdoors on most days of the week.” Visit their website for more valuable information on this topic.
Choosing a mineral SPF is recommended as I commonly see chemical sunscreens cause skin rashes, irritations and breakouts. The Colorescience Face Shield is on of our favourites, it is light and doesn’t feel greasy at all. If you would like something a little more nourishing you can try the Osmosis MD Protect.
Feed the skin antioxidants.
Oxygenated molecules (aka free radicals) are the main culprits for premature ageing. To defend our skin from these free radicals we need an army of potent antioxidants. Such potent Antioxidants are:
Vitamin C: increases collagen and protection from UV. Anti-inflammitory. Inhibits pigment formation which benefits an even skin tone.
Green Tea: anti-inflammitory, anticarcinogenic and antioxidant
Evening Primrose oil: promotes healthy skin and repair. Soothes inflammation, discourages dry skin and premature ageing of the skin.
Vitamin E: Protects cell membranes from UV damage. Reduces skin roughness and depth of wrinkles. Reduces the enzyme that breaks down collagen (collagenase).
Diet and Skin Connection
To give the skin a helping hand with its daily regeneration of repair, feed your body a diet high in antioxidants. Vitamin C, E, as well as A and the B Vitamin Biotin are important for healthy skin. Eating a diet of 5-7 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables each day will give all of these nutrients.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3263051/
https://www.cancer.org.au/preventing-cancer/sun-protection/vitamin-d/
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